Chess Lessons for Beginners

A ChessCentral E-Book

Chess books by Rev. Edward Ernest Cunnington (died 1942) were quite popular at one time. This electronic version of Chess Lessons for Beginners is based on the 23rd edition of that title! A few minutes looking at the contents will account for such appeal, and there is obviously a need for instruction of this caliber today. Not many books aim their remarks at players in, say, the 1300‑1500 rating range, especially observations seasoned with the chess wisdom and sound counsel found here. Because of this volume's clear and pointed explanations, even stronger players will derive benefit from the repetition of common sense chess principles. Therefore we are pleased to offer Chess Lessons for Beginners to a new generation of players, who may discover in Rev. E. E. Cunnington a teacher of the first rank.

The plan of this book consists of 22 annotated games, with commentary aimed especially at beginning players ‑ but Cunnington's idea of a "beginner" includes what we might call an average player. Chess author Tim Sawyer notes that the openings represented here are limited, but that the explanations given hold true for any opening. He writes, "The author demonstrates many general principles of chess from actual play." And that is the real value of this book; the timeless principles formulated in these pages are useful guides for any player, whether beginner or veteran. For well‑played games clearly commented are exactly what is needed by new students of the game, and Cunnington delivers in a way that makes Chess Lessons for Beginners a classic to be read over and over again.

With this expertly crafted electronic version of Chess Lessons for Beginners you get 4 text documents, hyperlinks and graphic commentary - even a scan of the beautiful cover.

Click here for an sample game, number 9 of the 22, which gives a flavor of the commentary offered in Chess Lessons for Beginners by Rev. Cunnington.